the calm before the storm

my favorite moment of labor is right as the nurses get the sterilized supplies ready and i am left alone with the mother for a few quiet moments before the pushing begins. i sit near her head and look at her. i tell her this is it, this is when it's going to happen. we are now entering a new phase and this is exactly what you need to do. this is how you need to position yourself and we will guide you every step of the way, but it is you who will deliver this baby. i assure her that she will know how to push, that we will count with her to make sure she is doing it right. the mix of fear and determination and fatigue i see is a beautiful sight. feelings gleaned from the eyes. we are preparing ourselves for a great battle and there is no giving up - only trudging through with all our might to reap the greatest reward there could ever be: a new life.